NEWARK — Eight manhole covers have been stolen in Newark in recent days, city police said.

Police received reports this morning of manhole covers being stolen at the intersections of Prince Street and South Orange Avenue in the 4th Precinct and Tichenor Street and New Jersey Railroad Avenue in the 3rd Precinct.

Mayor Cory Booker said the city will work with scrap dealers to find those responsible since thieves usually try to sell covers' cast-iron.

Police ask anyone with information about the thefts to call the police department's 24-Hour “Crime Stoppers” anonymous tip line at 877-NWK-TIPS (877-695-8477) or 877-NWK-GUNS (877-695-4867).

Police director Samuel DeMaio said in a statement that the thefts would be "vigorously" investigated until an arrest is made.